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♯┆wynnie .ᐟ ★

@videostargrl

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60. Cottage Goth (Dark Cottagecore)

Cottage Goth — Summary

Cottage Goth is an aesthetic that blends the rustic, slow-living warmth of Cottagecore with the moody, macabre elements of Gothic subculture. It reimagines traditional rural life through a darker lens, focusing on forest folklore, herbalism, old-world craft, and a deep reverence for the natural cycle of life and decay. It swaps sunny wildflower fields for fog-drenched woods, overgrown greenhouses, and cozy, shadow-filled cabins. Here is a breakdown of Cottage Goth!!!!!!!!

Origins & Development

  • Emerged in the late 2010s and exploded in popularity during the early 2020s alongside the mainstream rise of Cottagecore on platforms like Tumblr, Pinterest, and TikTok.
  • Developed as an alternative for goths who wanted to embrace a quiet, sustainable, and nature-focused lifestyle without losing their affinity for the macabre.
  • Influenced heavily by European folklore, traditional witchcraft, forest mythology, and classic Victorian-era botanical studies.
  • Flourished within DIY, thrifting, and foraging online communities that celebrate slow fashion and antique home decor.

Clothing & Accessories

  • Flowing, tiered midi and maxi dresses made of natural fibers like linen, cotton, or heavy wool
  • Vintage lace aprons
  • tattered shawls
  • chunky, oversized knit cardigans worn over dark layers
  • Corset belts
  • laced waist-cinchers
  • structured linen vests
  • Pointed lace-up leather boots
  • simple sturdy oxfords
  • practical rain boots
  • Accessories featuring natural elements
  • pressed ferns
  • dried mushrooms
  • cicada wings
  • animal bones
  • Large woven wicker baskets
  • canvas foraging bags
  • vintage leather satchels
  • Antique silver thimbles
  • pocket watches
  • keys carried on corded belts
  • Sun-bleached straw hats
  • dark wool berets decorated with dried flowers

Makeup & Hair

  • Very minimal, natural, or completely bare skin base
  • Soft, earthy tones around the eyes (soft browns, moss greens, or dried berry shadows)
  • Stained, blurred lip tones in brick red, plum,
  • simple tinted lip balms
  • Hair left in natural textures
  • loose, messy braids
  • soft waves
  • held up with wooden hair sticks and tarnished brass pins
  • Hair accessories like linen ribbons
  • bandanas
  • crowns woven from twigs and dried lavender

Colors

  • Matte black
  • charcoal grey
  • peat brown
  • Moss green
  • forest green
  • deep olive
  • Dried rose
  • dusty burgundy
  • elderberry purple
  • Oatmeal
  • unbleached linen cream
  • tea-stained ivory

Music

  • Dark folk
  • Neo-folk
  • Acoustic darkwave
  • Chamber pop
  • Ethereal wave
  • Traditional Celtic
  • European folk
  • Artists: Chelsea Wolfe, Florence + the Machine, Agnes Obel, Marissa Nadler, Hozier, Emily Jane White, Sangre de Muerdago

Movies & Television

  • Over the Garden Wall (2014)
  • Practical Magic (1998)
  • Sleepy Hollow (1999)
  • The Witch (2015)
  • Picnic at Hanging Rock (1975)
  • Secret Garden (1993)
  • The Village (2004)
  • The Haunting of Bly Manor (2020)
  • Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (2018)
  • The Secret World of Arrietty (2010)

Books & Folklore

  • Grimm's Fairy Tales
  • We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson
  • The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett l
  • Field guides on regional mushroom identification, foraging, and historical herbal medicine

Video Games

  • Wytchwood (2021)
  • The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
  • Animal Crossing series
  • Strange Horticulture (2022)

Fandoms / Communities

  • Vulture culture
  • ethical taxidermy circles
  • Home baking, tea blending, and kitchen witchcraft communities
  • Slow-fashion, thrifting, and textile repair advocacy groups

Similar Aesthetics

  • Dark Mori Kei
  • Goblincore
  • Witchcore
  • Southern Gothic

Inspo

59. Celestial Goth

Celestial Goth — Summary

Celestial Goth is an ethereal, cosmic aesthetic that looks upward from the traditional graveyard imagery of goth toward the vast, dark, and mysterious night sky. It merges classic gothic silhouettes with the romance of astronomy, astrology, and deep-space phenomena. It trades heavy spikes and cobwebs for glittering galaxies, planetary alignments, crescent moons, and constellation maps, creating a look that is both deeply melancholic and infinitely beautiful. Here is a breakdown of Celestial Goth !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Origins & Development

  • Emerged in the mid-to-late 1990s alongside the explosion of Heavenly Voices (a ethereal darkwave subgenre) and the dreamier, romantic gothic spaces.
  • Influenced heavily by 19th-century Victorian astronomy journals, vintage star charts, and the mystical symbolism of tarot and classic astrology.
  • Found a massive revival in the 2010s on Tumblr through the "Whimsigothic" movement, which blended 90s witchcraft style with cosmic patterns.
  • Continues to be a staple alternative fashion choice, celebrating the infinite, cold beauty of the cosmos through intricate textile designs.

Clothing & Accessories

  • Flowing maxi skirts
  • velvet capes
  • sheer mesh overlays printed with silver stars
  • moons
  • constellations
  • Velvet or silk-satin dresses in deep, night-sky tones (midnight blue, rich indigo, deep violet)
  • Corsets
  • waistcoats featuring ornate, metallic-embroidered moon phases
  • sunburst designs
  • Capes with oversized hoods lined with glittering fabric or deep celestial prints
  • * Jewelry featuring large silver crescent moons
  • raw quartz crystals
  • opalites
  • starburst pendants
  • Delicate body chains
  • hair jewelry
  • tiaras featuring metallic stars and planetary spheres
  • Velvet chokers with hanging moon charms or solar emblems
  • * Structured leather or velvet bags shaped like crescent moons
  • old leather-bound astronomy books

Makeup & Hair

  • Radiant, glowing, or slightly iridescent skin base
  • Dramatic smoky eyes in shades of deep indigo, midnight blue, and matte black
  • accented with silver glitter or star decals
  • Subtle, metallic-sheen lips
  • deep berry, plum, and midnight shades
  • Hair styled in long, loose, romantic waves
  • intricate braids reminiscent of constellation paths
  • soft buns
  • Hair colors often reflect the deep cosmos: jet black, midnight blue, deep galaxy purple, or striking silver and white

Colors:

  • Midnight blue
  • deep indigo
  • cosmic violet
  • Obsidian black
  • charcoal grey
  • Shimmering metallic silver
  • tarnished pewter
  • Soft alabaster
  • pearl white
  • iridescent blues
  • Subtle accents of antique or pale gold

Music

  • Heavenly voices
  • Ethereal wave
  • Dark ambient
  • Cosmic ambient
  • Dream pop
  • Artists: Cocteau Twins, Lycia, Love Spirals Downwards, Autumn's Grey Solace, Black Tape for a Blue Girl, Dead Can Dance, Alcest

Movies & Television

  • Practical Magic (1998)
  • Bram Stoker's Dracula (1992)
  • Melancholia (2011)
  • Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)
  • Sailor Moon (1991–1997)
  • The Craft (1996)
  • Stardust (2007)
  • Ink (2009)
  • Crimson Peak (2015)
  • Charmed (1998–2006)

Books & Lore

  • Historical 18th and 19th-century star atlases (like Uranographia)
  • Classic cosmic poetry from the Romantic era (Lord Byron, Percy Bysshe Shelley)
  • High fantasy literature dealing with dark star magic and celestial orders

Art & Design

  • Vintage tarot card illustrations
  • Pre-Raphaelite paintings focusing on night themes and celestial personifications
  • High-contrast astronomical photography
  • vintage lithographs

Fandoms / Communities

  • Alternative astrology and tarot reading circles
  • Ethereal darkwave and indie dream-pop music festivals
  • Spooky lifestyle bloggers who specialize in room decor featuring hanging crystals and star charts

Similar Aesthetics

  • Romantic Goth
  • Whimsigothic
  • Victorian Goth
  • Witchcore

Inspo

58. Health Goth

Health Goth — Summary

Health Goth is a modern, high-contrast aesthetic that merges the dark, monochromatic imagery of gothic subculture with contemporary sportswear, fitness culture, and futuristic cyber-tech aesthetics. It trades the traditional velvet, lace, and leather of classic goth for high-performance athletic fabrics, mesh, and sleek, minimalist gym wear, presenting an image of clean, dystopian, and hyper-functional dark style. Here is a breakdown of Health Goth!!!!!!!!!!!!

Origins & Development

  • Emerged as a distinct internet subculture and fashion trend in 2013 and 2014, heavily popularized by Portland-based artists Mike Grabarek and Jeremy Scott (known as Magic Fades).
  • Developed alongside the rise of Athleisure and the global popularity of underground dark techno and club subcultures.
  • Influenced by the clean lines of brutalist architecture, 1990s futuristic sci-fi sportswear, and advanced clothing technology.
  • Flourished on visual platforms like Tumblr, Instagram, and Facebook, bridging the gap between alternative fashion and physical fitness.

Clothing & Accessories

  • Matte black, moisture-wicking compression shirts
  • running tights
  • Oversized mesh jerseys
  • structural tech-fleece hoodies
  • windbreakers
  • Neoprene sports bras
  • athletic crop tops
  • tailored sweatpants
  • Technical running sneakers
  • tactical boots
  • minimalist black trainers with unique strap systems
  • Accessories featuring waterproof zippers
  • reflective 3M materials
  • tactical buckles
  • Sleek, matte black fitness trackers
  • smartwatches
  • wireless headphones
  • Graphic elements utilizing minimalist corporate branding
  • medical iconography
  • futuristic typography
  • Tech-wear running masks
  • balaclavas

Makeup & Hair

  • High-contrast, clean "glass skin" look
  • completely fresh-faced, minimal athletic makeup
  • Graphic, sharp geometric eyeliner (often in matte black or neon white)
  • Natural, hydrated lips
  • deep matte nude shades
  • Hair is kept highly functional and sleek
  • slicked-back high ponytails
  • tight boxer braids
  • architectural undercuts
  • sharp buzz cuts
  • Hair colors favor solid, industrial tones like jet black, bleached platinum white, or slate grey

Colors

  • Obsidian black
  • Stark, clean white
  • Industrial silver
  • metallic grey
  • High-visibility reflective silver (3M)
  • Occasional accents of neon blue or digital green

Music

  • Dark techno
  • Industrial techno
  • EBM (Electronic Body Music)
  • Glitch
  • Witch house
  • Deconstructed club
  • Artists: Gesaffelstein, Perturbator, Lorn, Health, Boy Harsher, Carpenter Brut, Crystal Castles

Movies & Television

  • Tron: Legacy (2010)
  • Aeon Flux (2005)
  • Blade Runner 2049 (2017)
  • Ghost in the Shell (1995)
  • The Matrix (1999)
  • A Cure for Wellness (2016)
  • The Neon Demon (2016)
  • Ex Machina (2014)
  • Underworld (2003)
  • The OA (2016-2019

Brands & Designers

  • Adidas Y-3 (Yohji Yamamoto)
  • NikeLab
  • Nike ACG (All Conditions Gear)
  • Rick Owens (DRKSHDW lines)
  • Puma x Alexander McQueen collaborations

Fandoms / Communities

  • Dark techno and industrial clubbing circles
  • Tech-wear and streetwear enthusiast communities
  • Alternative fitness, running, and bodybuilding subcultures

Similar Aesthetics

  • Cyberpunk Goth
  • Haute Goth
  • Corporate Goth (Corp Goth)
  • Techwear

inspo

57. nautical goth

nautical goth — summary

nautical goth is an atmospheric aesthetic that merges traditional gothic sensibilities with the lore, clothing, and imagery of the sea. rather than bright sailor stripes, it focuses on the dark, treacherous side of the ocean: ghost ships, deep-sea monsters, naval mourning wear, and maritime folklore. It evokes the feeling of a weathered coastal town, a long-lost pirate captain, or an ancient creature from the deep trenches. here is a break down of nautical goth!!!!!!!!!!!

origins & development

  • Developed as a niche subgenre within the broader goth scene in the late 1990s and 2000s, heavily tied to dark cabaret, psychobilly, and neoclassical darkwave music.
  • Influenced by 18th and 19th-century naval history, classical maritime literature, and the maritime ghost stories of coastal regions.
  • Grew out of a shared appreciation for cosmic horror (such as Lovecraftian lore) and pirate mythology, trading high-seas adventure for oceanic gloom.
  • Maintained a dedicated presence through alternative art circles, coastal subcultural meetups, and dark fantasy literature forums.

Key Motifs & Fashion Pieces

  • Weathered pea coats
  • brass-buttoned navy blazers
  • tattered captain’s jackets
  • flowing white or tea-stained poet shirts
  • high-necked linen blouses
  • Layered, distressed skirts
  • trousers reminiscent of tattered sails or fishnets
  • Heavy, oil-skinned leather boots
  • classic lace-up deck boots
  • Accessories featuring anchors
  • krakens
  • compasses
  • sextants
  • pirate coins
  • Jewelry made from natural sea elements
  • shark teeth
  • barnacles
  • sea glass
  • pearls
  • Sailor hats
  • tricorn hats
  • distressed fisherman beanies worn low
  • Rope belts
  • heavy iron key rings
  • netting worn as scarves or shawls

Makeup & Hair

  • Sun-bleached or wind-weathered base
  • Smoky eyes in shades of deep sea green, slate grey, or dark navy blue
  • Deep berry, dark plum, or completely matte black lips
  • Hair left in loose, salty, beach-textured waves
  • messy sailor braids
  • windblown dreadlocks
  • Hair colors often include deep midnight blue, seafoam green, or natural weathered tones

Colors:

  • Deep navy blue
  • ocean blue
  • midnight blue
  • Matte black
  • charcoal grey
  • storm-cloud slate
  • Foam white
  • tea-stained cream
  • driftwood beige
  • Accents of tarnished brass
  • oxidized copper green
  • antique gold

Music

  • Dark cabaret
  • Neoclassical darkwave
  • Sea shanty fusion
  • Psychobilly
  • Pirate punk
  • Dark ambient (oceanic/sub-aquatic scores)
  • Artists: The Tiger Lillies, Voltaire, Rasputina, Dead Can Dance, Vernian Process, Abney Park

Movies & Television

  • Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)
  • The Lighthouse (2019)
  • The Terror (Season 1, 2018)
  • Dark Shadows (1966–1971 / 2012)
  • Bram Stoker's Dracula (1992)
  • The Fog (1980)
  • Ghost Ship (2002)
  • Night Tide (1961)
  • The Uninvited (1944)
  • Midnight Mass (2021)

Books & Lore:

  • The Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
  • Moby-Dick by Herman Melville
  • The Shadow over Innsmouth by H.P. Lovecraft
  • Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson

Video Games:

  • Sunless Sea (2015)
  • Bloodborne (2015)
  • Return of the Obra Dinn (2018)
  • Sea of Thieves

Fandoms / Communities:

  • Historical naval reenactment factions
  • Cosmic horror and Lovecraftian lore societies
  • Alternative beach-dwelling and coastal lifestyle communities

Similar Aesthetics:

  • Romantic Goth
  • Victorian Goth
  • Steampunk Goth
  • Southern Gothic

Inspo

56. bubblegum goth

bubblegum goth — summary

bubblegum goth is a high contrast, playful aesthetic that intentionally clashes the dark, spooky elements of gothic subculture with the bright, sugar-sweet, and plastic world of mainstream pop culture. it features a hyper-feminine, cartoonish, and youthful style that pairs classic spooky motifs like skulls and bats with bright bubblegum pink, glitter, and Y2K era accessories. here a breakdown on bubblegum goth!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Origins & Development

  • emerged in the late 2000s and early 2010s as pop stars and alternative icons began blending dark aesthetics with bubblegum pop production and visuals
  • heavily influenced by the global expansion of japanese street fashions like pastel goth and fairy kei, adapted for western alternative spaces.
  • flourished on blogging and image sharing networks like tumblr and lookbook.nu, where users experimented with high contrast, digital-friendly color palettes
  • bridged the gap between mainstream radio pop imagery and the underground alternative club scene

key motifs & fashion pieces

  • vinyl
  • leather miniskirts in hot pink or shiny black
  • oversized graphic crop tops featuring cute monsters
  • pastel skulls
  • glittery alien heads
  • fishnet tights
  • thigh-high socks in neon pink, white, or checkerboard prints
  • chunky platform sneakers
  • holographic Mary Janes
  • pink combat boots
  • layered plastic jewelry
  • pony bead bracelets
  • candy hearts
  • toy like rings
  • barrettes shaped like bones
  • bat wings
  • pastel pink coffins
  • tinted translucent sunglasses (often heart-shaped or cat-eye frames)
  • fluffy faux-fur jackets
  • metallic puffer coats
  • dark clothing

makeup & hair

  • high contrast makeup
  • sharp classic black winged eyeliner
  • glittery pink eyeshadow
  • soft, doll like blush applied heavily across the cheeks and bridge of the nose
  • high gloss pink lips
  • holographic lip toppers
  • dual toned lipstick looks
  • hair styled in playful, youthful cuts
  • space buns
  • high pigtails
  • thick straight cut bangs
  • loose crimped waves
  • hair is almost universally dyed in vibrant bubblegum pink
  • cotton candy shades
  • split-dyed with pitch black

colors:

  • baby pink
  • bubblegum pink
  • hot pink
  • matte black
  • high-gloss black
  • lavender
  • lilac
  • mint green
  • holographic
  • metallic silver
  • glitter finishes

music

  • goth pop
  • dark pop
  • glitch pop
  • hyperpop
  • electropop
  • synth pop
  • artists, charli xcx, grimes, marina, kerli, Slayyyter, Poppy

movies, television & animation

  • Monster High (2010–present)
  • Jennifer’s Body (2009)
  • Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010)
  • Scream Queens (2015–2016)
  • Mean Girls (2004)
  • The Craft (1996)
  • Lisa Frankenstein (2024)
  • The Neon Demon (2016)
  • The Grime Adventures of Billy & Mandy (2001–2007)
  • Ruby Gloom (2006–2008)

  • toys & brands
  • sanrio (specifically Kuromi)
  • tokidoki vinyl figures and apparel lines
  • Y2K era alternative fashion brands
  • early internet mall boutiques

fandoms / communities

  • early 2010s tumblr alternative fashion archivers
  • hyperpop and experimental pop music fandoms
  • alternative doll customizing and collecting communities

similar aesthetics

  • pastel goth
  • perky goth
  • mall goth
  • cyberpop

inspo

55. gothic lolita (gosu rori)

gothic lolita —summary

gothic lolita is a highly structured, elegant fashion subculture that originated in Japan. it combines the hyper-feminine, modest, Victorian and Edwardian-inspired silhouettes of the broader lolita fashion movement with the dark, macabre, and melancholic themes of western gothic style. It emphasizes a doll-like appearance, immaculate coordination, and high-quality, lace-heavy garments. here is a breakdown of gothic lolitaaa!!!!!!!!!

origins & development

  • emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s in the Harajuku district of Tokyo, Japan.
  • heavily popularized by the Japanese Visual Kei music scene, most notably by Mana, the guitarist of the legendary band Malice Mizer, who coined the term "Elegant Gothic Lolita" (EGL).
  • rooted in a rebellion against mainstream Japanese societal expectations of youth fashion, choosing historical elegance and alternative expression instead.
  • spread globally through anime conventions, J-fashion subcultural meetups, and dedicated independent indie brands.

clothing & accessories:

  • bell-shaped skirts
  • A-line skirts
  • structured petticoats
  • high-necked, ruffled Victorian blouses
  • long sleeves
  • bell sleeves
  • jumperskirts (JSKs)
  • one-pieces (OPs)
  • heavy cotton
  • velvet
  • jacquard
  • dark, ornate prints
  • cathedrals
  • crosses
  • bats
  • chandeliers
  • ornate headwear
  • rectangular lace headdresses
  • mini top hats
  • large elegant bows
  • knee-high socks
  • thigh-high socks
  • often trimmed custom lace
  • cross prints
  • platform rocking-horse shoes
  • chunky Mary Janes
  • lace-up Victorian boots
  • lace parasols
  • bat-shaped purses
  • silver cross jewelry
  • elegant lace-trimmed bloomers

makeup & hair:

  • porcelain, matte foundation base
  • soft, round doll-like eyeshadow
  • deep plums
  • muted pinks
  • dark browns
  • neatly applied eyeliner
  • prominent top and bottom eyelashes
  • muted rose
  • deep crimson
  • dark berry lipsticks
  • perfectly styled hair
  • ringlet curls
  • straight hime-cuts
  • princess cuts with heavy straight bangs
  • twin-tails
  • hair is typically kept in natural dark tones
  • platinum blonde
  • deep burgundy

colors:

  • solid pitch black
  • stark white
  • deep navy blue
  • midnight blue
  • rich wine red
  • burgundy
  • oxblood
  • forest green
  • deep violet

music

  • Visual Kei
  • Symphonic rock
  • Darkwave
  • J-rock
  • Gothic metal
  • Neoclassical
  • artists: Malice Mizer, Moi dix Mois, Kanon Wakeshina, Ali Project, Yousei Teikoku, Phantasmagoria

movies, anime & manga

  • Kamikaze Girls (Shimotsuma Monogatari, 2004)
  • Rozen Maiden (2004)
  • Death Note (2006)
  • Black Butler (Kuroshitsuji, 2008)
  • Gosick (2011)
  • Psycho Gothic Lolita (2010)
  • Nuigulumar Z (2014)
  • X-Cross (2007)
  • Peep "TV" Show (2004)
  • Carole & Tuesday (2019)

fashion magazines & brands:

  • Gothic & Lolita Bible
  • Moi-même-Moitié
  • Innocent World
  • Atelier Pierrot
  • Alice and the Pirates
  • Putumayo
  • Black Peace Now

fandoms / communities:

  • international J-Fashion (Japanese Fashion) communities
  • local "comm" tea parties
  • anime and manga convention subcultural circles
  • doll collecting communities (such as Super Dollfie and Pullip)

similar aesthetics:

  • victorian goth
  • romantic goth
  • haute goth
  • steampunk goth

inspo

54. classic goth / 80s goth

classic goth — Summary

classic goth (frequently referred to as "trad goth") is the original, definitive subculture born directly out of the late-1970s punk rock explosion and early-1980s post-punk movement. it focuses on a sharp, DIY, and highly atmospheric aesthetic that values artistic rebellion, brooding introspection, and subcultural music history over modern, store-bought luxury. heres a breakdown of classic goth!!!!!! (i know i already did trad goth, but i wanted to fo sm for the originals)

origins & development

  • emerged between 1979 and 1983 in the United Kingdom as post-punk bands began trading punk's political rage for darker, atmospheric songwriting and romanticism
  • crystallized around legendary music venues like the Batcave in London and early independent record labels
  • heavily influenced by the visual personas of musicians who rejected mainstream pop glitz in favor of a striking, shadowy presence
  • serves as the foundational blueprint from which all other gothic subgenres and aesthetics eventually branched

clothing & accessories:

  • oversized, distressed black blazers
  • leather motorcycle jackets
  • tailored velvet coats
  • fishnet shirts
  • shredded mesh tops
  • layers of ripped hosiery
  • pointed footwear
  • winklepickers
  • heavily buckled pikes
  • classic Chelsea boots
  • straight-leg black denim
  • tight leather trousers
  • layered crinkle skirts
  • ornate silver jewelry worn in heavy layers
  • ankhs
  • rosaries
  • crucifixes
  • crescent moons
  • fingerless lace gloves
  • tattered fishnet arm warmers
  • safety-pin accents
  • vintage leather belts with large silver buckles often slung low on the hips

makeup & hair:

  • stark, pale matte foundation base
  • dramatic, heavy black eyeshadow
  • exaggerated, sharp winged eyeliner
  • aggressive "deathrock brows"
  • highly angular, shaved and redrawn
  • brushed upward dramatically
  • matte black
  • deep plum
  • stark crimson lipstick
  • a sharply defined Cupid's bow
  • massive, gravity-defying hair
  • backcombed "birds-nest" styles
  • heavily crimped manes
  • shaved undercuts held up with maximum-strength hairspray

colors:

  • obsidian black
  • charcoal grey
  • slate
  • stark contrast white
  • deep crimson
  • blood red
  • rich burgundy
  • midnight blue
  • deep violet

music

  • gothic rock
  • post-punk
  • early darkwave
  • positive punk
  • artists: Bauhaus, Siouxsie and the Banshees, The Sisters of Mercy, The Cure (early 80s trilogy: Seventeen Seconds, Faith, Pornography), Fields of the Nephilim, Clan of Xymox, Christian Death

movies & television

  • The Hunger (1983)
  • Christiane F. (1981)
  • The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920)
  • Nosferatu (1922)
  • Twin Peaks (1990)
  • Labyrinth (1986)
  • The Addams Family (1964)
  • Gothic (1986)
  • The Lost Boys (1987)
  • Beetlejuice (1988)

books & poetry:

  • Dracula by Bram Stoker
  • the works of Edgar Allan Poe
  • classic 19th-century gothic literature and romantic poetry
  • 1980s underground music zines (like Propaganda)

art & design:

  • german expressionist film design
  • surrealism and high-contrast photography
  • photocopy-art gig flyers
  • collage-style album covers

fandoms / communities:

  • traditional vinyl collectors
  • cassette trading circles
  • world-renowned alternative music festivals
  • local underground post-punk and darkwave club nights

similar aesthetics:

  • batcaver
  • deathrock
  • mopey goth
  • romantic goth

inpso

53. batcaver

batcaver — summary

batcaver is a foundational, old school subculture centered around the early 1980s post punk and deathrock revival scene. named after the legendary london nightclub the batcave, this style represents the raw, unpolished, and DIY roots of goth. it focuses on a look that is highly aggressive, theatrical, and heavily influenced by 1970s glam rock, trash horror movies, and classic punk rock. here is a breakdown of batcaver!!!!!

origins & development

  • developed in 1982 with the opening of the batcave club in soho, london, which served as the crucible for the emerging gothic rock scene
  • pioneered by bands who blended the raw energy of punk with the theatricality of glam rock and the atmospheric gloom of horror cinema
  • grew as a distinct visual style characterized by a shredded, safety-pinned, and DIY approach to fashion
  • continues to be celebrated globally through dedicated festival stages and nights focusing strictly on original 1980s vinyl tracks and deathrock revivals

clothing & accessories:

  • heavily shredded, torn, tops
  • fishnet tops
  • Leather or pleather motorcycle jackets
  • hand-painted band logos
  • studs
  • spikes
  • ultra-tight black skinny jeans
  • leather trousers
  • fishnet tights
  • winklepickers
  • pointed boots
  • heavily buckled pikes
  • fingerless fishnet gloves
  • tattered arm warmers
  • heavy silver jewelry
  • interlocking chains
  • safety pins
  • bone structures
  • large ankhs
  • bone
  • spiderweb
  • bat-shaped motifs
  • distressed denim vests
  • tattered black blazers covered in band patches

makeup & hair:

  • high-contrast, dramatic makeup
  • a stark pale base
  • aggressive, structural black eyeliner
  • "deathrock brows" (sharp, angular, or completely drawn-on eyebrows)
  • intricate face-paint details
  • spiderwebs
  • veins drawn near the eyes
  • bold black
  • deep purple
  • blood-red lipstick
  • slightly smudged
  • iconic, gravity-defying hair
  • massive teased deathhawks
  • mohawks
  • heavily backcombed "birds-nest" styles
  • hair is typically jet black
  • often sprayed with structural hairspray to hold extreme shapes
  • accented with white/crimson streaks

colors:

  • matte black
  • high-contrast stark white
  • deep blood red
  • crimson
  • electric purple
  • toxic green

music

  • deathrock
  • gothic rock
  • early/proto goth
  • post-punk
  • batcave
  • horror punk
  • artists: Specimen, Alien Sex Fiend, Bauhaus, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Christian Death, The Virgin Prunes, Sex Gang Children, Cinema Strange

movies & television

  • The Hunger (1983)
  • The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920)
  • Nosferatu (1922)
  • Return of the Living Dead (1985)
  • Elvira: Mistress of the Dark (1988)
  • The Batcave (1983)
  • The Lost Boys (1987)
  • The Crow (1994)
  • Batman Returns (1992)
  • The Addams Family (1964)

books & zines:

  • vintage 1980s music zines (e.g., *Propaganda Magazine*)
  • early gothic horror
  • classic weird fiction tales
  • historical documentation of the UK punk and post-punk movements

art & design:

  • german expressionism
  • vintage b-movie horror posters
  • grindhouse art
  • collage-style gig flyers
  • photocopied punk art

fandoms / communities:

  • traditional 80s post-punk vinyl collectors
  • global deathrock revival festivals (e.g., Return to the Batcave festival)
  • original Batcave club alumni and historian groups

similar aesthetics:

  • trad Goth
  • deathrock
  • horror punk
  • riot grrrl
  • punk rock

inspo

lmk if you guys like this style… i tried making it easier to read and understand for baby bats!

52. perky goth

perky Goth is a vibrant, energetic, and lighthearted subcultural archetype that turns the gloomy goth stereotype on its head. while maintaining a deep love for gothic music, horror, and alternative fashion, perky goths approach life with a bubbly, enthusiastic, and highly social attitude. visually, they often mix traditional dark clothing with playful accessories, bright accents, and a distinct sense of fun. here is a breakdown on perky goth!!!!!!!!!!!!

origins and development

  • emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s as a deliberate counter response within the scene to the overly serious mopey goth stereotype
  • heavily popularized by iconic comic book characters and animated figures who combined macabre interests with cheerful, sweet personalities
  • grew alongside the rise of the 1990s rave and club scenes, where many goths embraced high energy dancing and brighter visual aesthetics
  • remains a beloved staple of the subculture, celebrating the idea that loving the dark side doesn't mean you can't be joyful, welcoming, and full of life

clothing / accessories

  • traditional black outfits layered with bright, contrasting patterns
  • stripes
  • polka dots
  • checkerboard
  • playful fishnets
  • striped tights in vibrant colors
  • hot pink
  • purple
  • lime green
  • graphic tees featuring cute horror icons
  • classic cartoons
  • cheerful skull designs
  • combat boots
  • creepers
  • mary janes adorned with colorful laces
  • stickers
  • charms
  • whimsical hair clips
  • bat wing barrettes
  • plastic jewelry
  • skeletons
  • spiders
  • pumpkins
  • chokers with silver bells
  • hearts
  • cute spooky pendants
  • fluffy leg warmers
  • striped arm warmers
  • playful backpacks
  • bats
  • coffins
  • plush monsters
  • lots of DIY elements
  • pin back buttons
  • patches
  • custom decorated gear

makeup and hair

  • bright, colorful eyeshadow
  • pinks
  • purples
  • cyans
  • classic dark eyeliner wing
  • cheerful face details
  • drawn on stars
  • hearts
  • small bats near the eyes
  • vibrant lipstick tones
  • bright reds
  • purples
  • glittery finishes
  • fun, high energy hairstyles
  • space buns
  • high pigtails
  • heavily crimped hair
  • hair is frequently dyed in bright, multi colored fashion shades
  • split dyes
  • accented with neon streaks

colors

  • matte black
  • dark charcoal
  • hot pink
  • electric purple
  • vibrant magenta
  • lime green
  • neon orange
  • bright yellow
  • classic high contrast black and white stripes

music

  • deathrock
  • synth pop
  • darkwave
  • horror punk
  • dark cabaret
  • gothic pop
  • artists : alien sex fiend, specimen, strawberry switchblade, the damned, voltaire, switchblade symphony, siouxie and the banshees

movies / tv

  • the addams family
  • beetlejuice
  • ncis
  • hotel translyvania
  • the nightmare before christmas
  • edward scissorhands
  • elvira mistress of darkness
  • addams family values
  • corpse bride
  • wednesday

other media

  • death of the endless
  • the sandman by neil gaiman
  • nemi by lise myhre
  • scary godmother by jill thompson
  • emily the strange
  • gisgaea series
  • skullgirls
  • animal crossing series
  • gothic dance club regulars
  • underground party promoters
  • 80s synth pop and retro wave music communities
  • spooky lifestyle blogging
  • alternative DIY crafting circles

aesthetic

  • mall goth
  • pastel goth
  • bubble goth
  • dark cabaret goth

inspo

51. geek goth

geek goth is a subculture that proudly merges alternative gothic sensibilities with a passionate enthusiasm for nerd culture, fandoms, science fiction, tabletop gaming, and technology. it takes traditional gothic themes and filters them through a love for comic books, anime, computer programming, and retro gaming, proving that you can love the macabre while being completely invested in obscure lore and tech. here is a breakdown of geek goth!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

origins and development

  • emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s as internet culture expanded and the lines between alternative subcultures and nerd spaces began to blur
  • heavily driven by the growth of online forums, early tech workers who retained their goth identities, and the crossover appeal of dark fantasy and sci-fi media
  • found a physical home at comic conventions, gaming cafes, and anime expos where alternative fashion and cosplay intersected
  • teinvigorated in the 2010s and 2020s through platforms like twitch, discord, and alternative gaming communities under the banner of gamer goth

key motifs

  • graphic t-shirts with dark anime, retro video games, comic book villains, or programming jokes
  • oversized hoodies
  • cardigans
  • flannel shirts layered over fandom gear
  • combat boots
  • high-top sneakers
  • creepers decorated with fandom laces or pins
  • practical streetwear
  • black cargo pants
  • pleated skirts
  • simple jeans
  • accessories featuring classic dorky icons
  • cthulhu plushies
  • skull patterned dice bags
  • blue light blocking glasses
  • thick-rimmed frames
  • wire glasses
  • enamel pins
  • patches
  • keychains from favorite video games or series attached to backpacks
  • chokers with pixel art
  • game controllers
  • d20 dice pendants

makeup and hair

  • simple, casual makeup
  • clean winged eyeliner
  • playful graphic shapes
  • neon eyeshadow
  • muted, casual lip tones
  • basic black/purple lipstick
  • highly expressive hair
  • dyed in vibrant neon colors
  • lime green
  • electric blue
  • bright purple
  • low-maintenance styles
  • messy buns
  • space buns
  • undercuts
  • playful hair clips
  • bat-wing barrettes
  • cat-ear headphones

colors

  • matte black
  • charcoal grey
  • slate
  • High-contrast neon accents
  • matrix green
  • electric blue
  • warning red
  • deep plum
  • violet
  • indigo
  • graphic prints
  • monochrome
  • bright, stylized artwork

music

  • chiptune
  • 8 bit industrial
  • nerdcore
  • synth pop
  • synth wave
  • video game soundtracks
  • artists: crystal castles, mega ran, master boot record, keygen church, ghostemane, health

movies / tv

  • scott pilgrim vs the world
  • the matrix
  • ghost in the shell
  • donnie darko
  • invader zim

other media

  • the sandman by neil gaiman
  • johnny the homicidal maniac by jhonen vasquez
  • watchmen by alan moore
  • hp lovecraft cosmic horror fiction
  • vampire: the masquerade
  • cyberpunk 2077
  • dungeons & dragons
  • portal series
  • comic con
  • anime expo
  • alternative fashion circles
  • gothic and alternative streamers on twitch
  • tabletop gaming
  • mtg (magic: the gathering)
  • D&D groups

similar aesthetics

  • cyberpunk goth
  • mall goth
  • casual goth
  • nu goth
  • emo goth

inspo

49. mopey goth

the mopey goth is a highly introverted subcategory of the goth subculture characterized by a melancholic, brooding, and deeply emotional mindset. rather than focusing on aggression or theatrical parties, they emphasize quiet introspection, vulnerability, and a poetic, world-weary aesthetic. this is a breakdown of mopey goth!!!!!!!!!!!

origin and development

  • emerged in the mid to late 1980s as a media caricature and internal scene joke to describe fans who took the melancholia of gothic rock very seriously
  • heavily defined by the iconic, gloomy personas of frontmen like robert smith of the cure and morrissey of the smiths
  • grew out of the traditional goth scene as a stylistic choice that rejected flashy club clothes for oversized, comfortable, and sad looking everyday wear
  • remains a beloved staple archetype, often referenced fondly in alternative comic strips, memes, and subcultural zines

key motifs

  • slouchy clothes
  • stretched out black knit sweaters
  • long heavy wool trench coats
  • massive thrifted overcoats
  • flowing floor length black skirts
  • baggy relaxed fir black trousers
  • shredded, tattered heavily distressed black cardigans
  • canvas sneakers
  • converse
  • simple scuffed pointed flats
  • massive black scarves
  • knitted beanies
  • vintage tarnished lockets
  • simple corded crystal pendants
  • physical notebooks
  • poetry journals
  • paperback books
  • tote bags
  • messenger bag

makeup and hair

  • minimal washed out bade
  • completely bare base
  • softly smudged slept in black eyeliner
  • simple ring of grey eyeshadow around the eyes
  • bare natural lips
  • muted natural berry lips
  • teased out hair
  • bedhead
  • wild birdnest hairstyles

colors

  • faded black
  • charcoal grey
  • slate
  • heather grey
  • overcast sky blue
  • muted washed out navy
  • deep plum
  • off white
  • tea stained cream

music

  • gothic rock
  • post punk
  • coldwave
  • dark amibient
  • sadcore
  • slowcore
  • artists : the cure, joy division, lycia, black tape for a blue girl, low, the smiths, red house painters

movies / tv

  • edward scissorhands
  • beetlejuice
  • ghost world
  • inside out
  • permanent vacation

other media

  • the sorrows of young werther by johann wolfgang von goethe
  • the bell jar by sylvia plath
  • edgar allan poe poetry
  • sylvia plath poetry
  • classical 19th century french decadent poetry
  • nemi by lise myhre
  • gloomcookie by serena valentino
  • lenore the cute little dead girl by roman dirge
  • the cure fandom
  • robert smith fandom
  • sad poetry clubs
  • alt zine cukture
  • rainy day aesthetic
  • slow living online community

similar aesthetics

  • trad goth
  • casual goth
  • nu gith
  • soft grunge
  • dark academia

inspo

48. emo goth

emo goth fashion fuses the emotional, music driven casualness of the emo subculture with the dramatic, dark aesthetic of goth. it relies on a distinct blend of fitted clothing, stark color contrasts, and intentional accessories to showcase raw emotion and a moody vibe. here is a breakdown of emo goth!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

origins and development

  • emerged in the early to mid 2000s as the mainstream explosion of third wave emo intersected with established mall goth and trad goth spaces
  • driven heavily by the visual styles of prominent 2000s alternative rock, post hardcore, and gothic rock bands
  • flourished on early social media and blogging platforms like myspace, livejournal, and vampirefreaks
  • reinvigorated in the late 2010s and 2020s through nostalgia movements, soundcloud rap subgenres, and alternative communities on TikTok

key motifs

  • skinny jeans in black or deep charcoal
  • fitted band tee
  • striped long sleeve shirts
  • layered mesh tops
  • hoodies with asymmetrical zipper
  • thumbhole in cuffs of hoodies
  • checkered board patterns
  • skeletal printa
  • distressed textures
  • studded belts
  • belts double layered or slanted
  • fingerless glovws
  • wristbands
  • rubber bracelets
  • canvas sneakers
  • converse chuck taylors
  • slip on vans
  • chunky creepers
  • arm warmers
  • minimalist silver jewelry
  • safety pin accents
  • razor blades
  • messenger bags with patches, pins, and band buttons

makeup and hair

  • heavy thicklu smudge black eyeliner
  • dramatic smokey eye
  • raccoon eyes
  • pale base
  • completely matte foundation base
  • nude lips
  • matte black or deep berry lipstick
  • iconic asymmetrical hair
  • long side swept bangs
  • bands covering one eye
  • flat ironed straight hair
  • choppy razor cut layers
  • jet blackhair
  • neon streaks
  • raccoon tails

colors

  • matte black
  • neons
  • hot pink
  • electric blue
  • lime green
  • royal purple
  • deep violet
  • crimson
  • blood red
  • stark white
  • heather grey

music

  • emo pop
  • third wave emo
  • post hardcore
  • screamo
  • gothic rock
  • emo crust
  • dark hardcore
  • artists: my chemical romance, the used, afi, aiden, cinema bizarre, alkaline trio, from first to last

movie / tv

  • jennifers body
  • donnie darko
  • edward scissorhands
  • the criw
  • beetlejuice

other media

  • lenore the cute little dead girl by roman dirge
  • emily the strange by rob reger
  • gloomcookie by serena valentino
  • the crow graphic novel
  • the sandman graphic novel
  • kingdom hearts series
  • final fantasy vii
  • the world ends with you
  • life is strange: before the storm
  • 2000s alt nostalgia groups
  • emo night
  • scene fashion circles
  • emo fashion circles
  • goth fashion
  • midwestern emo
  • post hardcore music

similar aesthetics

  • mall goth
  • trad goth
  • soft grunge
  • scene

inspo

(basically, what people call tiktok alternative but with a bit more goth in it)

47. western goth

western goth fashion, sometimes called cowboy goth or y'allternative, is an aesthetic fusion that blends traditional victorian mourning and goth subcultures with rugged american frontier silhouettes. it trades neon city punk elements for desert romance, dark americana, and dramatic, somber silhouettes. here is a breakdown of western goth!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

origins and development

  • emerged as a distinct subgenre in the late 2000s and 2010s, building upon psychobilly and gothabilly styles
  • influenced heavily by classic spaghetti western films, pioneer folklore, and the desolate beauty of the north american desert
  • gained significant cultural traction through dark country music and alternative fashion brands reimagining traditional western apparel
  • solidified as a massive trend on pinterest and tiktok in the 2020s, blending high-end bohemian style with dark alternative streetwear

key motifs

  • black leather vests
  • suede fringe jackets
  • distressed black denim
  • leather chaps
  • high waisted wrangler trousers
  • flowing prairie dresses
  • tiered lace skirts
  • western button down shirt
  • silver metal collar tip
  • silver piping
  • wide brimmed black cowboy hats
  • bolero hats
  • pointed tow cowboy boots
  • distressed black
  • python print
  • bolo ties with silver slides
  • onyx
  • obsidian
  • animal skulls
  • tooled black leather belts
  • large ornate silver buckles
  • jewelry
  • torquoise
  • raw quartz
  • rattle snake rattles
  • vulture skulls
  • distressed duster coats
  • heavy canvas ponchos

makeup and hair

  • sun kissed base
  • wind burned base
  • subtle bronzer
  • sharp dusty brown eyes
  • charcoal smokey eyes
  • deep terracotta lips
  • brick red lips
  • matte black lips
  • long loose waves
  • messy braids
  • natural textured look
  • silver hair slides
  • leather wrals

colors

  • matte black
  • coal grey
  • sun bleached bone white
  • cream
  • desert sand
  • sepia
  • terracotta rust
  • deep oxblood
  • dried blood red
  • oxidized silver
  • turquoise blue

music

  • dark country
  • gothic americana
  • paychobilly
  • gothabilly
  • desert rock
  • dark ambient folk
  • artists : orville peck, murder by death, ghoultown, lindi ortega, timber timbre, the handsome family, johnny cash

movies / tv

  • preacher
  • bone tomahawk
  • godless
  • westwirld
  • the hateful eight
  • near dark

other media

  • blood meridian by cormac mccarthy
  • the dark tower series by stephen king
  • the sisters brothers by patrick dewitt
  • frontier folk lore
  • ghost stories if the wild west
  • red dead redemption: undead nightmare
  • evil west
  • hard west series
  • weird west
  • dark country music scene
  • psychobilly music scenes
  • modern alternative rodeo
  • festival fashion
  • weird west table top rpg communities

similar aesthetics

  • gothabilly
  • psychobilly
  • southern gothic
  • casual goth
  • nu goth
  • whimsigoth

inspo

46. southern gothic

southern gothic fashion blends classic victorian and gothic romanticism with the rustic, vintage aesthetics of the american south. It prioritizes breathable, worn-in materials, featuring antique lace, faded cotton, and corsetry, tailored for a moody, beautifully decaying aesthetic. here is a break down of southern gothic!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

origins and development

  • drew its initial inspiration from the early to mid 20th century literary genre spearheaded by authors examining the dark underbelly of southern society
  • grew into a distinct visual and musical subculture in the late 1990s and 2000s alongside the rise of gothic americana and dark country music
  • heavily influenced by the humid, swampy geography of regions like louisiana and mississippi, alongside traditional voodoo and hoodoo aesthetics
  • popularized globally in the 2010s through television dramas and crime procedurals that embraced a sun bleached, macabre atmosphere

key motif

  • light weight distressed cotton
  • linen dresses
  • yellowed or tea stained cloth
  • frayed dusty denim
  • dark cavas work coats
  • vintage lace slips
  • tarnished silk ribbons
  • high neck prairie blouses
  • wide brimmed straw hats
  • felt fedoras
  • sun bleached panama hats
  • weathered cowboy boots
  • riding biots
  • simple canvas shoes
  • heavy suspenders
  • white or grey work shirts
  • distressed pocket watches
  • antique skeleton keys
  • silver lockets
  • accent items
  • spanish moss
  • cicadas
  • cotton balls
  • dried magnolia leaves
  • run down leather satchels
  • bones
  • taxidermy jewelry

makeup and hair

  • minimal natural sweaty and smudged makeup
  • sun flushed
  • sallow skintones
  • muted blurred brick red or berry lips
  • loose naturally messy hair
  • messy braids
  • humidity frizzed waves
  • loose buns
  • hair accessories
  • tarnished silver combs
  • dried and wilted flowers

colors

  • tea stained ivory
  • cream
  • bone white
  • dusty charcoal grey
  • faded black
  • sepia brown
  • dried moss green
  • olive
  • swamp mud brown
  • muted terracotta
  • rust
  • sunfaded burgundy

music

  • gothic americana
  • dark country
  • delta blues
  • swamp rock
  • southern gothic rock
  • psychobilly
  • artists: murder by death, those poor bastards, wovenhand, 16 horsepower, slim cessnas auto club, adia victoria, ethel cain

movies / tv

  • true detective season 1
  • preacher
  • sharp objects
  • interview with the vampire
  • the beguiled
  • eves bayou

other media

  • as i lay dying by william faulkner
  • wise blood by flannery o’connor
  • midnight in the garden of good and evil by john betendt
  • belonging by toni morrison
  • hunt: showdown
  • resident evil 7: biohazard
  • red dead redemption 2
  • nor i
  • alt country music scene
  • gothic americana music scene
  • modern independent southern gothic literature
  • true crime
  • dark folklore

similar aesthetics

  • dark mori kei
  • whimsigoth
  • goblincore
  • dark academia

inspo

Mature content

45. tribal goth

tribal goth is an alternative subculture aesthetic that merges classic, dark gothic fashion with bohemian, middle eastern, and indigenous inspired elements. known for its earthy materials, heavy jewelry, and connection to alternative dance, it offers a more organic, grounded contrast to the strictly structured, synthetic traditional goth styles. here is a breakdown of tribal goth!!!!!!!!!!!!!

origins and development

  • emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s alongside the explosion of the american tribal style or ATS and tribal fusion belly dance movements
  • pioneered by alternative dancers who wanted to bring dark, melancholic gothic concepts into traditional folk and fusion dances
  • heavily influenced by middle eastern, north african, and central asian costuming, reimagined through a dark, alternative lens
  • coalesced through physical performance spaces, alternative dance festivals, and early internet communities dedicated to world fusion music

key motifs

  • tiered cotton skirts
  • harem pants
  • fringe shawls
  • coin belts
  • embroidered hip scarves
  • assiut cloth scarves and tops
  • fitted choli toos
  • mesh bodysuits
  • coin covered bras
  • massive collections of jewelry
  • vintage kuchi
  • turkmen
  • berber sikver jewelry
  • shells
  • bone beads
  • tattered textiles
  • large silver septum rings
  • nose chains
  • heavy statement rings
  • headwraps
  • turbans
  • hair full or cowrie shells
  • aniqute coins
  • bare feet
  • simple leather sandals
  • dancing flags

makeup and hair

  • dramatic heavy kohl eyeliner
  • facial symbols
  • dots
  • tradition inspired face painting
  • geometric forehead markings
  • temporary facial tattoos
  • black or blue markings
  • deep earthy lip colors
  • matte black, rich mahogany, or dark plum lips
  • massive ornate updos
  • loca
  • thick braids
  • yarn
  • feathers
  • bone beads
  • wool roving
  • massive silver hair pins

colors

  • deep matte black
  • ixblood
  • crimson
  • deep rust
  • forest green
  • olive
  • sage
  • deep plum
  • eggplant
  • tarnished sikver
  • antique bronze
  • natural bone white

music

  • tribal fusion soundtrack
  • dark wave
  • world fusion
  • ethno goth
  • dark ambient folk
  • industrial dance
  • middle eastern electronic
  • artists : corvus corax, beats antique, stellamara, irfan, solace, mercan dede, vas

movies / tv

  • performance recordings of rachel brice
  • the indigo tribal fusion dance company
  • queen of the damned
  • mad mac beyond thunderdome
  • chikdren of the dune
  • the cell

other media

  • the serpent of venice by christopher moore
  • historical texts on ancient body modifications
  • cultural history journals
  • hellblade senuas sacrifice
  • horizon zero dawn
  • god of war series
  • tribal fusion community
  • ats belly dance community
  • ren faire performance teoupes
  • wold music
  • drum circles

similar aesthetics

  • dark mori kei
  • goblincore
  • medieval goth
  • rivethead

inspo

Mature content

The author has indicated this post may contain content not suitable for all audiences.

44. haute goth

haute goth is an upscale, elegant take on traditional gothic fashion. it blends dark themes with high-end luxury. instead of cheap, everyday materials, haute goth features expensive fabrics like silk, velvet, and fine lace. think of it as dark, brooding poetry brought to life in a designer dress! here is a breakdown of haute goth !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

origins and devleopment

  • emerged on international runways in the late 1980s and 1990s as legendary designers began pulling inspiration from underground post punk and gothic club subcultures
  • pioneered heavily by avant garde japanese designers and european couture houses who infused traditional mourning wear with deconstructivist silhouettes
  • solidified as a distinct editorial style in fashion magazines like vogue italia and numero through dark, dramatic, cinematic photography spreads
  • continues to influence modern celebrity red carpet fashion, met gala themes, and high end alternative luxury brands

key motifs

  • deconstructed blazers
  • asymmetrical jackets
  • capes
  • floor length silk or silk satin slip gown with sheer mesh and lace inlays
  • avant garde, sculptural corsetry made of molded leather, high end brocade or plexiglass
  • statement sheer dusters
  • cathedral length veils
  • dramatic trailing trains
  • high neck victorian collars
  • towering platform heels
  • sculpted leather boots
  • minimalist pointed mules
  • editorial oversized statement jewlery
  • chunky silver hardware
  • abstract metal body cages
  • raw gemstone chokers
  • leather harbess vests
  • waist cinchers
  • luxury leather gloves
  • opera length gloves
  • fingerless gloves

makeup and hair

  • high fashion, flawless, matte porcelain skin
  • glass skin base
  • bleached eyebrows
  • shaved eyebrows
  • sharp, graphic runway eyeliner
  • stark lip applications
  • nude lips
  • high gloss pitch black lips
  • red ombre lips
  • monocromatic amokey eyes
  • glossy black eyeshadow
  • deep charcoal eyeshadow
  • red eyeshadow
  • highly atyled hair
  • slicked back high ponytail
  • architectural bob
  • micro bangs
  • wet look finger waves

colors

  • deep obsidian black
  • matte wool
  • shiny latex
  • silk
  • stark runway white
  • alabastor
  • oxblood
  • rich burgundy
  • deep crimson
  • slate grey
  • charcoal
  • metallic silver
  • rich midnight blue
  • imperial purple

music

  • neoclassical darkwave
  • dark amibent
  • avant garde
  • experimental darkwave
  • high concept runway soundtracjs
  • dark techno
  • artists : dead can dance, chelsea wolfe, anna von hausswolff, ic3peak, soap&skin, tricky, massive attack

movie / tv

  • the hunger
  • i am love
  • crimson peak
  • nocturnal animals
  • the neon demon
  • black swan

other media

  • alexander mcqueen
  • rick owens
  • yohji yamaoto
  • comme des garçons
  • john galliani
  • gareth pugh
  • ann demeulemeester
  • high fashion runway enthusiasts
  • couture collectirs
  • alternative modeling and editorial photography circles
  • met gala
  • avant garde art history

similar aesthetics

  • vampire court / goth
  • corp goth
  • victorian goth
  • dark academia

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43. medieval goth

medieval gothic refers to the art and architecture of the middle ages, roughly 1150 to the 1500s. known for towering cathedrals, pointed arches, and stained glass, the style actually got its name centuries later from critics who called it barbaric and ugly. here is a breakdown if medieval goth!!!!!!!!!!!!!

origins and development

  • emerged in the 1990s as a spin off of romantic goth and the burgeoning neoclassical darkwave music scene
  • heavily influenced by the european wave gotik treffen festival culture, where historical reenactors and goths merged
  • inspired by pre renaissance architecture, joan of arc imagery, religious asceticism, and medieval fantasy literature
  • gained a distinct online presence in the 2000s through dark fantasy forums, live action roleplaying or LARP communities, and historical fashion blogs

key motifs

  • surcoats
  • tunics
  • floor length kirtles
  • chemises
  • heavy velvet cloaks
  • caps with deep hoods
  • bell sleeves
  • trumpet sleeves
  • hanging tippets
  • chainmail accesnts
  • coin belts
  • leather armor bracers
  • heraldic or ecclesiastical embroidery
  • crosses
  • fleur de lis
  • tapestry print waist coats
  • corsets
  • square neckline
  • lace up neckline
  • pointed medieval slippers
  • poulaines
  • simple leather lace up boots
  • ornage crown rings
  • signet rings
  • heavy silver chalices
  • heavy silver torcs
  • rosaries
  • cross pendants
  • leather sachels
  • wrought iron style keys

makeup and hair

  • severe oale akin
  • soft earthy eye contours
  • tained deep berry or brick red lips
  • long flowy hair
  • intricate medieval braids and twists
  • long hair
  • historical beards
  • clean shaven monastic cuts

colors

  • deep forest green
  • olive
  • royal purple
  • rich plum
  • midnight blue
  • crimson
  • oxblood
  • burgundy
  • matte blsck
  • charcoal
  • metallic sikver
  • tarnished gold
  • iron grey

music

  • neoclassical dark wave
  • dark folk
  • medieval folk
  • gregorian changs
  • heavenly voices
  • artist ; dead can dance, qntal, estampie, dargaarf, arcana, corvus corax, sopor aeternus and the ensemble of shadows

movies / tv

  • the name of the rose
  • kingdom of heaven
  • joan of arc
  • the messanger
  • excalibur
  • macbeth
  • the green knight

other media

  • le morte d’arthur by thomas malory
  • the divine comedy by dange alighieri
  • the pillars of the earth by ken follett
  • medieval legends and folklore
  • dark souls series
  • elden ring
  • dragon age origins
  • kingdom come delieverance
  • historical LARP
  • SCA
  • ren faires
  • oagen music feativals

similar aesthetics

  • romantic goth
  • victorian goth
  • dark academia
  • dakr fantasy
  • knightcore

inspo